Performance Place, School of Music – University of Galway

Incorporating the creative workshop studio of Macnas and combining the School of Music with a community facility at the entrance to the main University Campus in the heart of Galway.

A new build facility proposed to replace the existing semi-derelict Hunters Building, several watersports shed structures and the Macnas warehouse building which are all conjoined in a building cluster.

It is proposed to replace these buildings with a new contemporary 2-storey structure which will house the School of Music, rehouse Macnas and provide a new covered bicycle parking and changing room facility. The facilities proposed will include a 450-seater Auditorium which will provide for public and university usage. This space will be available also for the School of Music which will be located at first floor consisting of classrooms, practice rooms, multi-purpose spaces, and administration space.

This combination of academic, transport, and creative uses aligns with the Nuns’ Island Masterplan and the objectives of the University of Galway and Galway City Council for Earls Island. The aim is to capitalise on this key junction between the city and the university, creating a balanced mix of public and academic uses at this important nodal location.